Damian Lillard's recovery from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) has progressed rapidly, as announced by the Milwaukee Bucks. He has been cleared for full basketball activities after discontinuing blood-thinning medications. Though Lillard participated in 3-on-3 drills and team practices, he will miss the Game 1 matchup against the Indiana Pacers due to ongoing conditioning needs. The team expects him to return before the first-round series concludes.

Bucks General Manager Jon Horst emphasized the importance of Lillard's health, crediting their medical staff for timely intervention and the support of specialists at the Mayo Clinic. Lillard's performance this season, averaging 24.9 points and 7.1 assists per game, will be crucial for the Bucks as they face the Pacers in a challenging playoff series.

Damian Lillard, the Milwaukee Bucks' star guard, has been cleared to resume playing after recovering from deep vein thrombosis in his right calf. Following a brief stint on blood-thinning medication, Lillard's recovery has amazed doctors, who noted that it is unprecedented. Initially expected to miss the start of the playoffs, Lillard played some 3-on-3 drills and is focused on returning soon. Although he will miss the Game 1 matchup against the Indiana Pacers, Lillard's status has shifted positively.

In Lillard's absence, the Bucks have performed admirably, finishing the regular season with a 10-4 record and clinching the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference. During the regular season, Lillard averaged 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.7 rebounds while shooting 38% from three-point range. Last year's playoffs saw him excel against the Pacers, averaging over 31 points per game.

In a significant injury update, Damian Lillard, the star point guard for the Milwaukee Bucks, is currently sidelined with deep vein thrombosis in his right calf, missing the last 14 games of the regular season. While the Bucks express optimism regarding his recovery, Lillard will not be cleared to play in time for the start of the playoffs. General Manager Jon Horst noted that Lillard's recent scans show improvement, allowing him to increase his activity on the court.

The Bucks are set to begin their playoff campaign against the Indiana Pacers this weekend, a challenging situation reminiscent of last year's postseason when they were also without their key player, Giannis Antetokounmpo. Lillard's absence could greatly impact the team's playoff performance, as he averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists in his second season with the Bucks alongside Antetokounmpo.

Damian Lillard’s injury status remains a focal point for the Milwaukee Bucks as they prepare for the playoffs. Though recent scans show significant improvement in his deep vein thrombosis, he will not be available for the opening game against the Indiana Pacers. Bucks GM Jon Horst emphasized that Lillard’s health is the team's primary concern, and while he is engaging in light shooting drills and running, full-contact practice is still out of reach.

During Lillard's absence, the Bucks managed to maintain a strong +9 net rating with Giannis Antetokounmpo on the floor, yet their performance dipped to -2.4 when both stars were sidelined. Given the potential for Lillard's return later in the series, the Bucks are hopeful for a quick recovery as they look to capitalize on their solid regular-season record against the Pacers.